Salary Offering:

$100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation

Position available in following locations:

• 279 Hargreaves St, Bendigo, VIC 3550
• 150 Commerical Road, Morwell, VIC 3840
• Unit 3 / 262 Maude St, Shepparton, VIC 3630

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:

This role is full-time fixed term 

This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.

The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in Family law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region.

This position will:

• Provide high quality legal services in Family Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
• Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
• Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at one of our Regional Offices.

The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Family Law Panel.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practicing certificate)
• Demonstrated ability to act as an advocate, deliver information, advice, casework and outreach services, and undertake negotiation and dispute resolution on behalf of VALS clients in Family Violence, Intervention Orders and, to a lesser extent, Family Law and Child Protection matters.
• Knowledge of, and 4+ years of practical experience in relevant Family Violence, Intervention Orders, Family Law and Child Protection law and procedure.
• Skills and experience to manage, supervise and develop solicitors, paralegals and CSO’s
• Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners 
• A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria;
• Competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.

Salary Offering:

$100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation

Position available in following locations:

• 150 Commerical Road, Morwell, VIC 3840
• Unit 3 / 262 Maude St, Shepparton, VIC 3630

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:

This role is full-time fixed term 

This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.

As Regional Practice Lead, you will have 4+ years of practical experience in criminal law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the criminal justice system.

• Provide high quality legal services in Criminal Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
• Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context. 
• Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the assigned region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support based at the VALS Office.   

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising certificate)
• Capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex criminal law matters, with knowledge of, and practical experience in the law and court procedures within the criminal law jurisdiction
• Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and volunteers and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills in criminal law
• Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners
• A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria
• Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.

Desirable:

• Member or eligible to be a Victoria Legal Aid Panel member for summary, indictable and youth matters
• Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
• Experience working in the non-profit sector.

Salary Offering:

$100K – 115K depending on experience plus 11.5% Superannuation

Position available in following locations:

• 150 Commerical Road, Morwell, VIC 3840
• Unit 3 / 262 Maude St, Shepparton, VIC 3630

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:

This role is full-time, fixed term 

This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.

The Regional Practice Lead will have 4+ years of practical experience in civil law and act as a lead advocate for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people interacting with the civil justice system across region. This position will:

• Provide high quality legal services in Civil Law matters, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
• Engage with Aboriginal community stakeholders to identify key community legal education (CLE) needs relevant to the regional and local context.
• Link with, and oversee the development of, partnerships and referral and support pathways within the Mildura region to assist VALS clients with access to other legal assistance and services relevant to them. This includes oversight of Aboriginal client service officers (CSOs) and administrative support.

The role holder will have the endorsement or is eligible to become a Panel Certifier on Victorian Legal Aid (VLA) Civil Law Panel.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria and in the High Court of Australia (with an unrestricted practising certificate).· Capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex civil law matters, with knowledge of, and practical experience in the law and court procedures within the civil law jurisdiction.·
• Ability to supervise, mentor and train staff and volunteers and contribute to the development of individuals and their knowledge and skills in civil law.· Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and more broadly with multidisciplinary colleagues and VALS partners.· 
• A commitment to and understanding of VALS and the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria.· 
• Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client management system.

Desirable:

• Experience working in the non-profit sector.· Member or eligible to be a Victoria Legal Aid Panel member for summary, indictable and youth matters· Accredited Civil Law Specialist

Salary Offering: $70,351.38 (VALS D 1.3) plus 11% Superannuation

Additional Benefits:

• 17.5% Leave Loading

• 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave 

• Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours

• Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips

• Salary packaging is available via Maxxia

Office Locations: 150 Commercial Road, Morwell, Vic, 3840

This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:

To provide high quality secretarial / administrative support services to the Criminal, Aboriginal Families and Civil Practice Leads. The role holder will provide a reception function and act as a liaison and coordination point for office management. This includes in arranging stationery and supplies, liaison with local tradespeople and the VALS office manager and ensuring the adequacy of VALS approaches to good workplace health and safety. 

WHAT YOUR DAY LOOKS LIKE: 

•  Provide a reception function within the VALS Morwell Office.

•  Undertake all secretarial tasks and associated file management tasks as provided by

   solicitors to support ongoing file management of clients in Criminal, Aboriginal Families

   and Civil Law Practice.

•  Prepare documentation for briefing Counsel or other professionals as directed, including

   photocopying, collating and arranging delivery.

•  Receive phone calls on behalf of individual solicitors and follow up enquiries or record

   messages for action by solicitor.

•  Assist in arranging appointments for clients or making contact with clients directly.

•  Undertake filing of reports and other documentation on behalf of clients.

•  Update data base and electronic files as required.

•  Lodge and maintain Victoria Legal Aid grant applications within the ATLAS system as

   required.

•  Participate in the processing of ingoing and outgoing mail for the organisation.

•  Keep up to date with relevant procedures by attending professional education programs

   and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of

   the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community.

•  Arranging stationary orders and office equipment when necessary. 

•  Liaison with local tradespeople and the Office Manager, as required, to ensure a good

   working environment e.g., calling out and supervising any emergency repair work,

   ensuring the effectiveness of the digital technology environment, conducting any

   emergency evacuation drills. 

•  As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks,

   provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and

   training.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Secretarial or similar experience preferred but not essential. 

• Advanced skills in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail – word proficient to 80 words per minute) to a legal practice, or similar, and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.

• Professional and courteous phone manner and interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, who may be experiencing stress and anxiety due to their legal needs, and other team members and partners

• Knowledge or a willingness to learn about the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria, with a commitment to the principles and values of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service

PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY:

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.

• Ensure appropriate use of resources.

• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.

• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)

• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.

• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.

• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:

 On offer of this position, you must provide:

• Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.

• You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.

• Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption

• Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation

• Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence

• Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Salary Offering: $70,351.38 (VALS D 1.3) plus 11% Superannuation

Additional Benefits:

• 17.5% Leave Loading

• 5 extra days leave on top of 20 days annual leave 

• Only required to work 35 hours per week, any extra hours worked will be calculated as your Time In Lieu (TOIL) – which you may use as additional leave hours

• Access to company vehicles for any work-related trips

• Salary packaging is available via Maxxia

Office Locations: 8 Watton St, Werribee, VIC, 3030

This position may require regional and very occasional interstate travel.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:

To provide high quality secretarial / administrative support services to the Criminal, Aboriginal Families and Civil Practice Leads. The role holder will provide a reception function and act as a liaison and coordination point for office management. This includes in arranging stationery and supplies, liaison with local tradespeople and the VALS office manager and ensuring the adequacy of VALS approaches to good workplace health and safety. 

WHAT YOUR DAY LOOKS LIKE: 

•  Provide a reception function within the VALS Werribee Office.

•  Undertake all secretarial tasks and associated file management tasks as provided by

   solicitors to support ongoing file management of clients in Criminal, Aboriginal Families

   and Civil Law Practice.

•  Prepare documentation for briefing Counsel or other professionals as directed, including

   photocopying, collating and arranging delivery.

•  Receive phone calls on behalf of individual solicitors and follow up enquiries or record

   messages for action by solicitor.

•  Assist in arranging appointments for clients or making contact with clients directly.

•  Undertake filing of reports and other documentation on behalf of clients.

•  Update data base and electronic files as required.

•  Lodge and maintain Victoria Legal Aid grant applications within the ATLAS system as

   required.

•  Participate in the processing of ingoing and outgoing mail for the organisation.

•  Keep up to date with relevant procedures by attending professional education programs

   and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of

   the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community.

•  Arranging stationary orders and office equipment when necessary. 

•  Liaison with local tradespeople and the Office Manager, as required, to ensure a good

   working environment e.g., calling out and supervising any emergency repair work,

   ensuring the effectiveness of the digital technology environment, conducting any

   emergency evacuation drills. 

•  As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks,

   provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and

   training.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:

• Secretarial or similar experience preferred but not essential. 

• Advanced skills in the use of MS Office Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail – word proficient to 80 words per minute) to a legal practice, or similar, and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.

• Professional and courteous phone manner and interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, who may be experiencing stress and anxiety due to their legal needs, and other team members and partners

• Knowledge or a willingness to learn about the legal issues faced by members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria, with a commitment to the principles and values of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service

PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY:

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.

• Ensure appropriate use of resources.

• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.

• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)

• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.

• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.

• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:

 On offer of this position, you must provide:

• Copy of your current Employee Working with Children Card.

• You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check.

• Up to date vaccination certificate or valid medical exemption

• Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e., a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate, or Immigration VISA documentation

• Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence

• Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time/ Part Time | Option to extend based on funding and performance

Salary: $73,196.94 – $74,196.94 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date:  8th September 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

About the Role: Paralegal – Criminal Law Practice

To support the work of the VALS legal team by providing a point of first contact and triage for people seeking to access the legal team’s legal services. To ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria who require legal assistance are given the best opportunity to access that assistance, whether through VALS or other external organisations. You will be operating as part of an integrated and diverse team that includes junior lawyers, senior lawyers, administration staff and client service officers.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct initial intake for people seeking legal assistance, primarily over the phone but also from time to time in person at the VALS Preston office.
• Taking thorough and concise intake notes for legal enquiries, as well as recording mandatory client data for reporting purposes.
• Manage large daily volumes of client data and intake material within VALS’ client database, to ensure follow up tasks related to intake and processing are being effectively managed.
• Manage and collaborate with volunteers, by allocating tasks and work throughout the day that will best enable them to support the work of the paralegal.
• Make timely, appropriate and effective referrals for individuals the VALS criminal team is unable to assist, including to external organisations as well as within VALS, for both legal and non-legal matters. 
• Actively participate team meetings.
• Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other VALS projects as required.
• Contribute to the collaborative relationship between Victoria Legal Aid,other community organisations and stakeholders to support warm referrals to other legal professionals where VALS cannot assist the client.
• As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.

Key Selection Criteria

• Sound interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to interact and communicate effectively with persons seeking legal assistance.
• A commitment to and understanding of the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities in Victoria.
• The ability to quickly attend to tasks in an efficient and precise manner, with attention to detail, and a demonstrated capacity to balance multiple responsibilities in a high-pressure environment.
• Basic knowledge of the law and court procedures with a focus on the areas of law the legal practice focusses on.
• A demonstrated ability to communicate and liaise in a professional manner with VALS external stakeholder organisations and their representatives, including pro bono law firms, other CLCs, Court and Tribunal staff etc.
• The ability to work collaboratively with others and to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment.
• Strong skills in the use of MS Office 365 Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, Email) relevant to a legal practice, and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client database.

Key Capabilities and Personal Accountability

Key Capabilities

• Gains insight into the team’s vision and goals.
• Demonstrates resect for self and colleagues.
• Approaches each task with enthusiasm.
• Manages competing demands.
• Practises good legal writing; complies with the style guide or the specific requirements of the clients; shows attention to detail when preparing documents.
• Participates in knowledge sharing activities such as team meetings and training programs.

Personal accountability 

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.
• Ensure appropriate use of resources.
• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.
• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)
• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.
• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.
• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

Mandatory Requirements

The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:

• Enrolled in or completed a Bachelor of Laws or similar practical training qualification or be otherwise eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria.
• Current Employee Working with Children Check
• National Criminal History Police Check
• Proof of full vaccination or valid medical exemption
• Proof of Australian work rights (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or visa)
• Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence

Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time/ Part Time | Option to extend based on funding and performance

Salary: $72,381.40 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date: 8^th August 2025

About VALS

Victoria Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and the state’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Established in 1973, we provide culturally safe legal advice and representation across criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth justice, and specialist litigation. Our broader supports include a 24/7 Custody Notification Service, transitional housing for women exiting custody, family violence programs, one‑to‑one client support, and community legal education.

We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, LGBTQI+ communities, and diverse cultures are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome requests for adjustments throughout recruitment and employment to ensure accessibility and support.

About the Role: Legal Secretary – Criminal Law Practice

To provide high quality secretarial and support services to the legal staff in the provision of criminal law assistance to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria. This includes for the Criminal Law team and Balit Ngulu, a dedicated youth justice service that VALS makes available to young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

You will be operating as part of an integrated and diverse team that includes junior lawyers, senior lawyers, administration staff and client service officers.

 
Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the logging of client data recording including court dates on internal calendar systems.
• Undertake all secretarial tasks and associated file management tasks as provided by solicitors in relation to the ongoing file management of clients of the Service in areas of Criminal law, including youth justice law (overseen by Balit Ngulu).
• Prepare documentation for briefing Counsel or other professionals as directed, including photocopying, collating and arranging delivery.
• Assist in arranging appointments for clients or making contact with clients directly.
• Lodge and maintain Victoria Legal Aid grant applications within the ATLAS system as
• required, including invoice payments.
• Undertake filing of reports and other documentation on behalf of clients.
• Keep up to date with relevant procedures by attending professional education programs and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities of Victoria.
• Assisting our VALS reception including taking of incoming calls and assisting in person where necessary.
• As directed, undertake other administrative duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.

Key Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated ability and experience as a legal secretary.
• Advanced skills in the use of MS Office 365 Software (particularly MS Word, Excel, E-mail) to a legal practice and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.
• Professional and courteous phone manner and interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, including young people and families.
• Works collaboratively with others and fosters a co-operative/supportive team environment.
• A commitment to the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Victoria including an ability to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and acknowledge their diverse backgrounds, personalities and varying needs and the unique cultural ways in which they may be expressed.

Key Capabilities and Personal Accountability

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.
• Ensure appropriate use of resources.
• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.
• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)
• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.
• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.
• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

Mandatory Requirements

The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:

• Current Employee Working with Children Check
• National Criminal History Police Check
• Proof of Australian work rights (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or visa)
• Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence

Why Join VALS?

We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:

• 17.5% Leave Loading
• 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
• Time in Lieu (TOIL) system for any hours worked beyond your contracted 21 hours per week
• Access to company vehicles for work-related travel
• Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
• Opportunity to work alongside a passionate team committed to delivering culturally appropriate legal and support services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)
Location: Preston, VIC | Part-Time | Fixed Term until 30 June 2026
Salary: $78,402.32 – $84,402.32 pro rata + Super + Salary Packaging

Applications close on 15th August 2025.

About Us
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is Victoria’s only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Established in 1973, we provide a range of services including criminal, family, civil, youth justice, advocacy, and holistic support programs. VALS is strongly committed to diversity, equality and inclusion, and actively seeks applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the LGBTQI+ community, culturally diverse backgrounds, and people with disabilities or neurodiverse conditions.

About the Role
In partnership with Melbourne City Mission (MCM), VALS will deliver Disability Advice and Response Team (DART) services to the criminal division of the Children’s Court as well as Marram-Ngala Ganbu (Koori Family Hearing Days) in Broadmeadows. As part of this program, the VALS DART Worker will be working alongside and form as part of our Balit Ngulu team. The DART Worker is expected to attend all criminal division and Marram-Ngala Court sitting days in Broadmeadows Children’s Court.

The DART Worker will assist the Children’s Court in identifying when a young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person (client) has a disability and will enable the presiding judicial officer to be better informed about any forms of disability the client may have. Drawing upon their knowledge and skills in support coordination, the DART Worker will build rapport and will support the young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client in completing required screening processes and provide further referrals of allied health services where required. The DART Worker will have links with the MCM ECIS team when additional allied health supports are requested by the courts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Processing referrals at Court, completing an assessment using the prescribed assessment tool and maintaining records of whether young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client possess indications of a disability or not.
• Work directly with the Courts and other professionals (if any) to identify if a young Aboriginal and/Torres Strait Islander person with a disability has all the necessary supports.
• Deliver in-person DART service at Children’s Court in Broadmeadows and Shepparton.
• Receiving and processing referrals into the DART program capturing personal information required for young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client/s.
• Connecting and identifying key people to provide information on the young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client/s’ current abilities and functioning.
• Provide support to young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people outside of their court days; and some provision of remote service for young Aboriginal people attending other courts.
• Provide assistance and advice to young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client and their families and networks and the Department, on the presence or absence of a disability, and whether further investigation is warranted.
• Provide support to young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander client/s to access key information and services. This includes undertaking client liaison, warm referrals to relevant support services such as with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and advocacy as appropriate.
• Represent and promote Balit Ngulu and participate in client case planning processes with partner agencies.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of contacts with and for clients and undertake other administrative tasks consistent with VALS policies and procedures.
• As directed, lodge all necessary court documents and adhere to matters of confidentiality.
• Participates in ongoing training and staff development and acts and remains professional at all times, upholding VALS values.
• As directed, undertake other duties as directed which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
• Attend all mandatory training sessions, including Equal Employment Opportunity, Occupational Health and Safety, Cultural Safety, and any other training deemed essential for the role.

Key Selection Criteria

Essential:

• Tertiary qualification and/or demonstrated experience working in the Community Services sector (Disability, Mental Health, Housing, Justice).
• Demonstrated experience working with young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment including assertively and respectfully with partners, including ACCOs and persons working within Victorian courts, police, youth justice and child protection and residential care services.
• Excellent computer skills.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the Victorian legal system, including an understanding of the Children’s Court practices and procedures.
• Experience working within the not-for-profit sector, ideally within an ACCO.
• Experience of working as part of a whole-family and whole-community approach to supporting clients.
• Experience working with people living with a disability.
• Knowledge of the NDIS Act 2013, Disability Act 2006, and experience working in a NDIS environment.

What We Offer:

• Extra annual leave entitlements plus leave loading.

• Salary packaging to maximise take-home pay.

• Career development and mentoring opportunities.

• Be part of a passionate team creating real systemic change.

Mandatory Requirements:

• Working with Children Check (Employee)

• Victorian Driver’s Licence

• Criminal History Police Check

• Proof of work rights in Australia

• Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Paralegal, Balit Ngulu

Location: Preston, VIC

12-month contract (with potential for extension) \ Part time applications (4 days a week) will be considered.  

Salary: $73,196.94 – $76,197.03 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date: 08th August 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, LGBTQI+ communities, and diverse cultures are strongly encouraged to apply. We welcome requests for adjustments throughout recruitment and employment to ensure accessibility and support.

About Balit Ngulu

The core function of Balit Ngulu is to provide Aboriginal children and young people (up to 21 years old) with appropriate legal advice and representation and support their empowerment and resilience within its service areas.  Balit Ngulu will aim to: 

Provide quality and timely legal services to Aboriginal children and young people for matters within Balit Ngulu’s specified service locations of the Children’s Court of Victoria.

• Support Aboriginal children and young people with legal assistance and services to help them grow within the community.

• Divert Aboriginal children and young people away from the justice system and seek incarceration alternatives for Aboriginal children and young people in contact with the justice system, including supporting and prioritising bail applications for those who are at risk of being remanded or are remanded in custody within Balit Ngulu’s specified service locations.

• Assist Aboriginal children and young people to have a strong voice in Child Protection decisions that impact them and ensure that they are not removed from parental care unless there is an unacceptable risk harm. Where children are removed from parental care, provide strong advocacy to ensure that appropriate support is provided to enable reunification to occur and ensure that Aboriginal children remain connected to their family, community and culture when living out of parental care.

• Provide consistent contact and legal support with children and young people in the legal system.

• Provide legal education activities to vulnerable Aboriginal children and young people within service areas and those in youth detention.

Role Summary

The Balit Ngulu Paralegal plays a central role in delivering culturally safe and trauma-informed legal services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people across Victoria. As the first point of contact for clients, the paralegal provides intake and triage support, ensuring young people relate to appropriate legal and non-legal assistance at the earliest opportunity.

Working within an integrated multidisciplinary team of lawyers and Aboriginal community support staff, the paralegal manages client information, supports day-to-day legal operations, and maintains clear communication between clients, solicitors, and external stakeholders including the Court, Victoria Legal Aid, other Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, Child Protection, Youth Justice and Victoria Police.

The role ensures young people receive timely, responsive legal support grounded in a holistic understanding of their needs, particularly when navigating child protection and youth justice systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for young people and their families seeking legal assistance, primarily over the phone and occasionally in person at the VALS Preston office.

• Conduct comprehensive legal client intake, capturing clear and accurate information, and recording all mandatory data for compliance and reporting purposes.

• Maintain and manage intake material and client data in VALS’ client database to support effective follow-up, file management, and referrals.

• Provide legal administrative support to solicitors, including drafting, organising, and preparing documents for court, briefing counsel, or filing.

• Undertake all administrative tasks and associated file management tasks as provided by solicitors relating to the ongoing file management for clients of the Balit Ngulu practice.

• Manage the internal calendar by logging court dates and ensuring solicitors are updated as required.

• Receive and triage phone calls, pass on accurate messages, and follow up on enquiries where appropriate.

• Arrange client appointments and follow up with clients to confirm schedules or collect necessary information.

• Draft and manage Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) grants within the ATLAS system including processing payment of invoices for barristers and professional reports.

• Make effective and culturally sensitive referrals to other VALS programs or external services when legal assistance is not available through VALS.

• Provide back-up support to the VALS reception team during break periods.

• Participate in team meetings, case discussions, and collaborative work with internal and external stakeholders.

• As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.

Key Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with a diverse range of people, including Aboriginal young people and families, community members seeking legal assistance, and external stakeholders such as courts, Victoria Legal Aid, Victoria Police and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations. A courteous and professional phone manner is essential.

• A commitment to and understanding of the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities in Victoria.

• Highly developed organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, work efficiently under pressure, and maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail in all administrative tasks, including intake, data entry, and preparation of court documents.

• Basic knowledge of relevant areas of law and court procedures, particularly in relation to youth justice, criminal law, child protection, and family matters, and a willingness to expand this knowledge through ongoing learning and professional development.

• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary legal team, fostering a cooperative and supportive work environment, and actively contributing to service delivery.

• Strong computer literacy, including advanced skills in MS Office 365 (particularly Word, Excel and Outlook, OneNote, Microsoft Teams), and the capacity to quickly learn and adapt to new systems, including VALS’ client management database and Victoria Legal Aid’s ATLAS platform.

Qualifications & Mandatory Checks

Desirable

• Enrolled in or completed a Bachelor of Laws or similar practical training qualification or be otherwise eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria.

• Previous experience working in a legal environment, community legal services or an Aboriginal Controlled Organisation,

• Experience working with young people in child protection or youth justice systems

• Understanding of trauma-informed and culturally safe practice

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.

• Ensure appropriate use of resources

• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.

• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)

• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.

• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.

• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

• A copy of your current Employee Working with Children Check card 

• A copy of your current Victorian Driver’s License 

• You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check

Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e. a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate or Immigration VISA documentation and copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Why Join VALS?

We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:

• 17.5% Leave Loading

• 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days

• Time in Lieu (TOIL) system for any hours worked beyond your contracted 21 hours per week

• Access to company vehicles for work-related travel

• Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia

• Opportunity to work alongside a passionate team committed to delivering culturally appropriate legal and support services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities

• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time | 12-month (with potential for extension) 

Salary: $120,000 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date: 08th August 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

About Balit Ngulu

The core function of Balit Ngulu is to provide Aboriginal children and young people (up to 21 years old) with appropriate legal advice and representation and support their empowerment and resilience within its service areas.  Balit Ngulu will aim to: 

• Provide quality and timely legal services to Aboriginal children and young people for matters within Balit Ngulu’s specified service locations of the Children’s Court of Victoria.

• Support Aboriginal children and young people with legal assistance and services to help them grow within the community.

• Divert Aboriginal children and young people away from the justice system and seek incarceration alternatives for Aboriginal children and young people in contact with the justice system, including supporting and prioritising bail applications for those who are at risk of being remanded or are remanded in custody within Balit Ngulu’s specified service locations.

• Assist Aboriginal children and young people to have a strong voice in Child Protection decisions that impact them and ensure that they are not removed from parental care unless there is an unacceptable risk harm. Where children are removed from parental care, provide strong advocacy to ensure that appropriate support is provided to enable reunification to occur and ensure that Aboriginal children remain connected to their family, community and culture when living out of parental care.

• Provide consistent contact and legal support with children and young people in the legal system.

• Provide legal education activities to vulnerable Aboriginal children and young people within service areas and those in youth detention.

Role Summary

The Managing Lawyer plays a pivotal role in supporting the Principal Managing Lawyer delivering exceptional, culturally safe legal services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients. This leadership position requires a dedicated professional who will guide and mentor a diverse team of lawyers, paralegals, and support staff while maintaining the highest standards of legal practice, with a particular focus on child protection matters and family violence intervention orders for clients with links to the Darebin Local Government Area (LGA).

Operating within an integrated and collaborative environment, the Managing Lawyer will oversee day-to-day operations of child protection and crossover clients in the Darebin LGA, while ensuring quality legal representation and fostering professional development. This role combines direct client advocacy with strategic team management, requiring both strong legal expertise and exceptional leadership skills.

Central to this position is the requirement for a high degree of cultural capability, enabling effective work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The Managing Lawyer will address complex legal needs spanning child protection, youth justice and civil law matters, with child protection being a primary focus area requiring specialized expertise in navigating the complexities of the child protection system and its impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

This position offers the opportunity to make a transformative impact by ensuring culturally appropriate, high-quality legal representation, particularly in child protection proceedings where the stakes are highest for vulnerable children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Principal Managing Lawyer in delivering culturally safe legal services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients

• Guide and mentor lawyers, paralegals, and support staff while overseeing day-to-day operations

• Foster professional development and ensure quality legal representation

• Provide direct client advocacy with particular focus on child protection matters

• Address complex legal needs spanning child protection, youth justice, family law, and civil law

• Deliver culturally appropriate legal representation in child protection proceedings and for cross over children

• Maintain high degree of cultural capability to work effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities

• Ensure culturally safe service delivery and build strong client relationships

• Champion cultural competence across the team

• Manage complex legal matters and contribute to policy development initiatives

• Make transformative impact on vulnerable children and families through specialised expertise

Key Selection Criteria

• Current, unrestricted Victorian Practicing Certificate with demonstrated advanced post admission experience in Child Protection and Family Violence Intervention Orders matters

• Extensive advocacy experience in child protection matters (including court appearance)

• Capability to provide strategic specialist legal advice and guidance to VALS lawyers on complex child protection matters and policy issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

• Comprehensive understanding of barriers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face in legal service delivery and a commitment to advancing VALS strategic priorities

• Demonstrated experience to manage, supervise and develop junior solicitors and paralegals

• Experience in design and delivery of professional legal education

• Skills in strategic and operational planning, including ability to work effectively with others to develop and implement policies and procedures

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships and positive stakeholder engagement with Victoria Legal Aid, the Courts, ACCOs, and other youth-focused organisations.

Qualifications & Mandatory Checks

Desirable

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in child protection

• Previous management experience

• Experience working in Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, community legal services or similar non-profit organisations

• Knowledge of policy development and law reform processes

• LIV Accredited Specialist in Children’s Law

Personal accountability 

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.

• Ensure appropriate use of resources.

• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.

• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required)

• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.

• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.

• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

• A copy of your current Employee Working with Children Check card 

• A copy of your current Victorian Driver’s License 

• You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check

Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e. a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate or Immigration VISA documentation and copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Why Join VALS?

We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:

• 17.5% Leave Loading

• 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days

• Time in Lieu (TOIL) system for any hours worked beyond your contracted 21 hours per week

• Access to company vehicles for work-related travel

• Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia

• Opportunity to work alongside a passionate team committed to delivering culturally appropriate legal and support services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities

• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Senior Lawyer, Balit Lawyer

Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time | 12 Month (with potential for extension)

Salary: $101,410.40 – $105,905.80 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date: 08th August 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

About Balit Ngulu

The core function of Balit Ngulu is to provide Aboriginal children and young people (up to 21 years old) with appropriate legal advice and representation and support their empowerment and resilience within its service areas.  Balit Ngulu will aim to: 

• Provide quality and timely legal services to Aboriginal children and young people for matters within Balit Ngulu’s specified service locations of the Children’s Court of Victoria.

• Support Aboriginal children and young people with legal assistance and services to help them grow within the community.

• Divert Aboriginal children and young people away from the justice system and seek incarceration alternatives for Aboriginal children and young people in contact with the justice system, including supporting and prioritising bail applications for those who are at risk of being remanded or are remanded in custody within Balit Ngulu’s specified service locations.

• Assist Aboriginal children and young people to have a strong voice in Child Protection decisions that impact them. Where children are removed from parental care, provide strong advocacy to ensure that appropriate support is provided to enable reunification to occur and ensure that Aboriginal children remain connected to their family, community and culture when living out of parental care.

• Provide legal, non-legal and cultural support to children and young people in the Criminal and Family Divisions of the Children’s Court.

• Provide legal education activities to vulnerable Aboriginal children and young people within service areas and those in youth detention.

Role Summary

The Senior Lawyer will report to the Managing Lawyer and case manage and appear in child protection and intervention order matters. The Senior Lawyer will also appear in some criminal matters for their cross-over clients.

This newly created role represents an expansion of our current legal team to further assist vulnerable Aboriginal children particularly in the Family Division. The position combines legal practice with greater intensive case management of individual cases while building strategic partnerships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal advice, assistance and representation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people across Child Protection, Criminal and Civil matters through integrated service delivery.

• Establish culturally safe, inclusive practices that empower young people to participate in decision-making while accommodating diverse gender identities and abilities.

• Develop trauma-informed legal strategies and pathways that support positive outcomes in education, employment and life planning.

• Coordinate referrals and linkages to support services that address drivers of Child Protection and justice involvement, particularly family violence, to build positive pathways.

• Working collaboratively with Balit Ngulu Aboriginal Community Engagement Woker to support young people

• Maintain high professional standards and quality legal practice while ensuring client-centered, culturally appropriate service delivery.

Key Selection Criteria

• At least 3 years experience in Child Protection and family violence.

• Experience establishing strategic partnerships with ACCOs and mainstream services. Ability to coordinate referral pathways and advocacy across multiple service systems.

• Experience working with Aboriginal children and young people. Strong understanding of cultural safety principles and Aboriginal ways of knowing.

• Proven ability to supervise and mentor junior legal staff.

Qualifications & Mandatory Checks

Personal accountability 

• Compliance with all VALS values, code of conduct, policies and procedures and relevant government legislation and standards where relevant.

• Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of social justice and aim to ensure every individual is treated with dignity and respect regardless of their background, ability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or religion.

• Ensure appropriate use of resources.

• Actively participate in initiatives to maintain, build upon and promote a positive and collaborative workplace.

• Take reasonable care for your own health & safety, and health and safety of others (to extent required).

• Maintain own self-care and wellbeing with support of line management.

• Promptly respond to and report health and safety hazards, incidents and near misses to management.

• Attend mandatory training sessions (ie. equal employment opportunity, health and safety, cultural safety) and mandatory training specific to position.

• A copy of your current Employee Working with Children Check card 

• A copy of your current Victorian Driver’s License 

• You will be required to complete a current Criminal History Police Check

• Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e. a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate or Immigration VISA documentation

• Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Proof of rights to work in Australia, i.e. a copy of an Australian Passport, Birth Certificate or Immigration VISA documentation and copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role

Why Join VALS?

We offer a supportive, flexible, and culturally safe working environment with a range of attractive benefits, including:

• 17.5% Leave Loading

• 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days

• Time in Lieu (TOIL) system for any hours worked beyond your contracted 21 hours per week

• Access to company vehicles for work-related travel

• Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia

• Opportunity to work alongside a passionate team committed to delivering culturally appropriate legal and support services for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities

• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time |

Salary: $88,305.40 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date: 27^th August 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

About the Role: Lawyer – Criminal Law

Criminal Lawyers are to provide high quality legal services, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information in criminal law matters to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria. You will be operating as part of an integrated and diverse team that includes junior lawyers, senior lawyers, administration staff and client service officers.

Key Responsibilities

• Appear as an advocate in various courts including the Children’s Court, Magistrates Court, County Court and Koori Courts in order to represent clients of VALS in criminal matters.
• Deliver a quality legal service by conducting casework in criminal law matters for members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
• Appear in the Bail and Remand Court on weeknights and weekends (including nights) on a rostered basis.
• Participate in the on call after hours roster (“Night phone”) and provide emergency advice to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Victoria.
• Appear for clients at remand Court. At times this will require duty lawyer shifts on a rotating seven-day (including evenings, weekends and public holidays) roster
• Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other VALS projects as required.
• Participate in regular team meetings.
• Contribute to the collaborative relationship between Victoria Legal Aid and other community organisations with whom VALS interacts.
• Keep up to date with relevant legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.
• Travel across Victoria to deliver services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Sometimes this travel will occur outside of usual business hours and on weekends. Use of a VALS vehicle is available for this travel and a driver’s licence is required.

Key Selection Criteria

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a legal practitioner in Victoria
• Demonstrated ability to act as an advocate, deliver legal advice and casework on behalf of VALS clients
• Knowledge of and practical experience in the law and court procedures with a focus on the criminal law jurisdiction
• Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community
• A commitment to and understanding of the legal issues faced by members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria
• The ability to work collaboratively with others and to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment
• A knowledge of the principles and values of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
• Basic competency in the use of Office 365 software and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS client database
• Demonstrates emotional intelligence and shows respect to colleagues and other
• stakeholders always
• Supports and contributes to a cohesive team and organisation culture
• Understands and complies with legal professional obligations
• Meets client and stakeholder expectations in a timely, reliable and consistent manner ensures that others meet expectations
• Possesses a strong grasp of relevant legal issues but consults with internal or external experts where appropriate
• Ability to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and acknowledge their diverse backgrounds, personalities and varying needs and the unique cultural ways in which they may need be expressed

Mandatory Requirements

The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:

• Copies of any certificates or degrees relevant to this role
• Current Employee Working with Children Check
• National Criminal History Police Check
• Proof of Australian work rights (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or visa)
• Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Location: Preston, VIC | Full-Time

Salary: $101,410.40 – 105,905.80 + Super + Salary Packaging

Application Closing Date: 27^th August 2025

About VALS

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) has been advocating for and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people since 1973. Our holistic services span criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth legal services, 24/7 custody notification, housing, family violence programs, and much more. At VALS, we are committed to self-determination, equality, diversity, and inclusion and we are always evolving to meet community needs.

About the Role: Senior Lawyer

Senior Criminal Lawyers are to provide high quality legal services, including duty lawyer services, representation, advice and information in criminal law matters to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria. You will be operating as part of an integrated and diverse team that includes junior lawyers, senior lawyers, administration staff and client service officers.

Key Responsibilities

• Appear as a senior advocate in various courts including the Children’s Court, Magistrates Court, County Court and Koori Courts in order to represent clients of VALS in criminal matters.
• Appear in the Bail and Remand Court on weeknights and weekends (including nights) on a rostered basis.
• Deliver a quality legal service by conducting casework in criminal law matters, including serious indictable matters, for members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
• You will be required to travel across Victoria to deliver services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Sometimes this travel will occur outside of usual business hours and on weekends. Use of a VALS vehicle is available for this travel and a driver’s licence is required.
• Participate in the on call after hours roster (“Night phone”) and provide emergency advice to members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community in Victoria.
• Appear for clients at remand court. At times this will require duty lawyer shifts on a rotating seven-day (including evenings, weekends and public holidays) roster.
• Supervise and mentor staff working in the area of criminal law and contribute to the organisation in professional legal education and training.
• Ability to act in the Managing Lawyer or Principal Managing Lawyer position in a higher duties capacity if required.
• Participate in community legal education projects, law reform and other VALS projects as required.
• Participate in regular team meetings.
• Contribute to the collaborative relationship between Victoria Legal Aid and other community organisations with whom VALS interacts.
• Keep up to date with relevant legal developments and procedures by attending professional legal education programs and maintain an understanding of issues impacting the justice system and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• As directed, undertake other duties which are incidental and peripheral to the main tasks, provided that such duties are reasonably within the employee’s skills, competence and training.

Key Selection Criteria

• At least 3+ years experience as a legal practitioner, with demonstrated capability to work as an advocate and caseworker in complex matters.
• Ability to supervise, mentor and train less experienced lawyers and contribute to the development of their knowledge and skills
• Sound interpersonal skills and the capacity to communicate effectively with members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, including young people.
• Excellent organisation, time management, communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with others and to foster a co-operative and supportive team environment
• Basic competency in the use of MS Office Software and the capacity to quickly acquire competency in the use of VALS’ client data base.

Mandatory Requirements

The successful applicant must be able to provide or be willing to obtain:

• Admitted as a legal practitioner in Victoria, with an unsupervised practising certificate.
• Current Employee Working with Children Check
• National Criminal History Police Check
• Proof of Australian work rights (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or visa)
• Current valid Victorian Driver’s Licence